Great British Energy Bill 2025-05-14

Questions the Minister about the assurance that solar panels installed in Britain will not be manufactured by the Chinese Government using slave labour, emphasising the need for strict regulations to prevent forced labour across supply chains.

Agrees with the Minister's commitment but highlights the importance of Great British Energy in controlling and ensuring ethical standards in supply chains, aiming to prevent slave labour involvement.

Critiques Labour MPs for voting against an amendment preventing Great British Energy from investing in supply chains with links to modern slavery. Welcomes the Government's recent change of stance but questions if the clean power mission remains feasible without compromising on ethical standards.

Expresses hope for a restored cross-party consensus on tackling modern slavery in supply chains, emphasising the importance of maintaining ethical practices in energy transition efforts.

Supports Lords amendment 2B and acknowledges it as a significant step towards preventing goods linked to Chinese slave labour from entering renewables supply chains, appreciating the Government's reconsideration under pressure.

Supports the Bill and acknowledges its importance for all regions, including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. He expresses concern about slave labour in the Uyghur region and welcomes what the Government have put in place.

Calls for a comprehensive overhaul of the Modern Slavery Act 2015, stating that current provisions are piecemeal. Emphasises the need to take moral responsibility and stand up against modern slavery by updating legislation across all Government bodies.

Welcomes GB Energy's commitment but questions if 'ensure' means what it says in the context of preventing slave labour. Proposes a certificate of conformity for equipment to guarantee supply chains are free from slavery.

Asks the Government to learn from America's approach, using forensic science to test company supply chains for forced labour issues. Emphasises the need to ensure correct declaration of supply chains and highlights the importance of testing and sanctioning companies that lie about their supply chains.

Responds positively to Sir Iain Duncan Smith’s points regarding supply chain tracking. Acknowledges that Great British Energy is not a standalone solution but an important step towards tackling forced labour in the broader context of Government action.

Thanks the Minister for listening to various comments across the House, analysing arguments made by Members, and considering contributions from the other place. Acknowledges that this Bill will help shift global supply chains towards greater transparency.